Men's Ashes 2027
Cricket Etiquette
Attending a Test match is a relaxed experience. The days are long, crowds move freely, and the atmosphere is generally good-natured. There are, however, a few well-established traditions and unwritten customs at an Ashes Test that are worth being aware of before you arrive.
Respect the Game
Play can stop and resume very quickly. A wicket can fall, a review can be called, or a new over can begin without much warning. Spectators generally try to avoid disrupting the view of those already seated while the ball is in play.
- While the ball is live
- Try to avoid moving in front of seated spectators or crossing sight lines while a delivery is being bowled. Most experienced attendees wait for the ball to be dead before moving along a row.
- Natural breaks
- The end of an over, a drinks break, or the fall of a wicket are natural moments to move. These happen regularly throughout the day.
- Distracting players
- Sustained noise or movement directly behind the bowler's arm can be distracting to batters at the crease. Ground announcements will usually ask spectators in those areas to remain still during play.
Moving Around the Ground
Spectators move freely throughout the day at Test matches. People leave and return to their seats regularly — to buy food, visit facilities, or explore different areas of the ground. This is entirely normal and expected.
Many people choose to wait between overs or during a natural pause before moving along rows, which reduces disruption for those watching. This is a common courtesy rather than a strict rule, and practice varies between grounds and sections.
- Steward guidance
- Stewards are present throughout grounds and will provide direction if needed. Follow their instructions when given — particularly around access routes and restricted areas.
- Accessibility
- All grounds have designated accessible seating areas and facilities. Stewards can assist with directions if required.
Practical information on arriving, entering the ground and planning your day is covered in the Matchday Guide.
Photography
- Personal photography
- Photography for personal use is generally permitted at Test matches. Most spectators take photographs throughout the day without issue.
- Flash photography
- Flash photography can be distracting to players and other spectators and is generally considered inappropriate during play. Most phone cameras default to flash-off in good light.
- Commercial photography
- Commercial photography, video recording for broadcast or publication, and the use of professional camera equipment typically require accreditation and advance permission from the ground. This does not apply to personal use.
- Venue guidance
- Photography policies are set by each venue. Always check the specific ground's guidance before attending. Signage at the ground will clarify any restrictions that apply.
Food & Drink
Eating and drinking throughout the day is entirely normal at a Test match. Grounds have a range of catering facilities, and queues at popular outlets can build around lunch and tea intervals.
- Ground facilities
- Facilities vary between venues. Some grounds have a wide range of food and drink options; others are more limited. Checking in advance can help you plan the day.
- Queuing
- Queuing is the normal and expected way to use catering facilities. Allow additional time around intervals when demand is highest.
- Respect for others
- Be considerate when eating and drinking near other spectators, particularly in covered or enclosed seating areas.
Queueing
Orderly queueing is a well-established convention in England. At entry gates, catering outlets, and transport after play, joining the back of a queue and waiting your turn is the expected approach. This applies at cricket grounds in the same way it does elsewhere.
Respect Other Supporters
The Ashes is one of the most keenly contested series in cricket, and a degree of friendly rivalry between English and Australian supporters is part of the atmosphere. Both sets of supporters attend in significant numbers at every Test.
- Friendly rivalry
- Banter between supporters of both sides is common and generally good-natured. The Ashes has a long history of this and it is part of what makes the series distinctive.
- Language and conduct
- Grounds are family environments. Keep language and conduct appropriate, particularly in areas where children and families are seated.
- Steward guidance
- If a steward asks you to moderate your conduct or move, cooperate. Stewards are responsible for the safety and enjoyment of everyone in the ground.
Information on the host cities and what to expect in each location is covered on the Host Cities pages.
Leaving the Ground
Crowds build significantly around the close of play. Thousands of spectators leave at similar times, and transport hubs near grounds become congested quickly.
Patience is the most practical approach. Roads and public transport routes clear gradually over the hour or so following close of play. If your accommodation or onward journey allows some flexibility, waiting at the ground for thirty minutes after the close can make a meaningful difference.
Allow extra time for transport connections, particularly if you have an onward train or flight. Ground-specific transport guidance is covered on the Matchday Guide.
Quick Etiquette Checklist
- Respect play while the ball is live
- Queue patiently at entry gates and facilities
- Follow steward instructions when given
- Respect supporters of both teams
- Check venue guidance on photography
- Dispose of litter responsibly